Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the organs and tissues within your body.
Most MRI machines are large, tube-shaped magnets. When you lie inside an MRI machine, the magnetic field temporarily aligns all the water molecules in your body. Radio waves cause these aligned particles to produce very faint signals, which are used to create cross-sectional MRI images — like slices in a loaf of bread.
The MRI machine can combine these slices to produce 3-D images that may be viewed from many different angles.
Our MRI provides state-of-the-art technology and patient-friendly features including:
MRI is a noninvasive way for your physician to examine your organs, tissues and skeletal system. It produces high-resolution images that help diagnose a variety of problems. MRI is the most sensitive imaging test of the brain and spinal cord. It is often performed to help diagnose tumors, developmental abnormalities, aneurysms, stroke, pituitary gland diseases, multiple sclerosis, dementia progression and spinal cord injuries.
Before an MRI exam, eat normally and continue to take your usual medications, unless otherwise instructed. You will be asked to change into a gown or scrubs, and to remove:
The presence of metal in your body may be a safety hazard or affect the quality of the MRI image. Tell the technologist if you have any metal or electronic device in your body, such as:
Also, tell the technologist if you think you’re pregnant because the effects of magnetic field on fetuses aren’t well understood. If you are pregnant, your physician may recommend postponing the MRI or choosing an alternative exam.
For most individuals, there are no known harmful effects from exposure to the magnetic field or radio waves used in MRI.
Exams may be scheduled during the following hours: